Britons are 'Jekyll and Drivers'

A new study has revealed that British drivers undergo a drastic personality change when they hit the road.

The psychological study, commissioned by insurance provider Aviva, described Britain as a nation of "Jekyll and Drivers".

Out of 4,000 motorists surveyed, 61% said they become more aggressive and take more risks when they get behind the wheel, while 39% said they turn quieter and more cautious.

The study carried out by Professor Geoff Beattie, Head of the School of Psychological Science at the University of Manchester, analysed the driving habits of British motorists and mapped them into different personalities.

Nine personality types emerged from the study. One in 10 motorists exceeded the speed limit, overtook in built up areas and rural roads, and were categorised as "racing drivers".

A fourth of drivers admitted to answering the phone while driving, and about 33% drove fast to impress others.

The study found that male drivers were worse than female motorists, being twice as likely to jump the red light on an empty road.

While drivers between 17 and 21 years were the most aggressive, the study found that drivers tended to mellow with age.